5 Steps To Making The Perfect “About Me” Layout

As scrappers we (at some point) realize the absence of ourselves in all our photos and layouts. We are the memory keepers, the photo-takers, and the ones usually in charge of or volunteering at the activity or event. So finding someone to hand off the camera to can be the last thing on our minds. Besides that, we all have that little voice in our head that says, I'm not having the best hair day, or I will get some pictures taken after I lose just 5 more pounds, or the kids spilled (fill in the blank) on my blouse and I don't want a photo of that, or etc. But when it comes down to it, we can't be completely absent from this life, after all we are one of the most important people in it! So here are 5 simple tips to help ease us to the other side of the camera and onto the scrapbooking page...

1. Consider your audience

Get a photo of yourself that fits with the general vibe and tone of your event or activity. Don't try to look like a Disney princess if you are hosting the local crab feed, on a hike with your family, or camping with the kids' scout troop. The best About Me photos are fun and have a personal feel. And don't worry about the background, you can crop that out!

     

2. Tell your story

I find that photos that come from a bit above your head are always more flattering AND when the subject (you) is standing up straight with your head pointed ever so slightly downward (not enuf to make it look like you have 5 chins), eyes open, and a nice smile that isn't too big (because it can tend to look goofy). Try to be outside in the shade on a sunny day because natural light is the most flattering.



3. Keep it real
Remember this scrapbook layout is for the ages, but mostly i'ts for you. Give your About Me layout a fun feel. Ask yourself: who (am i or who am i with), what (am i doing or what do i like to do), where (am i or where do i like to be), when (am i happy, what day or month is it, what celebration or event is it), why (am i here at this event, why do i host or organize or join in), how (did this become part of my life).



4. Keep it consistent

This is a dedicated piece of scrapbook real estate that’s all about you. Make sure your About Me journaling expresses who you are as a person in an authentic way by including some of the hats you wear (mom, wife, sister, crafter, photographer, etc), some things you like and enjoy (cooking, sports, crafting, etc), a little known fact about you (born on superbowl sunday, collects unicorns, fosters puppies, etc), and something small about your location (born and bred in texas, loving life in the windy city, taking a daily bite out of the big apple). Getting a little personal in your journaling will help people relate to you. Your story is the thing that makes you special, and it's what your ancestors are going to want to know. Don’t forget to tell it!

5. Don’t overthink it

This is ultimately the most important step in writing your About Me.  So while it needs to be accurate, fit with your style, and serve a purpose, everyone out there knows that it’s impossible to sum yourself up in just a few words. When you relax, the words will come to you easier. Trust me.